Elian's POV
*****
"Very well." Lucian nodded after giving Elian one last glance. "If they're ready, forward the call to me."
Reina nodded once on the holographic screen but then paused. Her eyes flicked to Elian, giving him a once-over. The latter's eyes darted away from her scrutinising gaze.
Fuck, what now?
"Is anything the matter, Delta?" Lucian questioned, tilting his head.
Delta Reina gave a small head shake. "Not necessarily, your majesty. It's just... You'll be representing the Empire with this call."
Ugh, here they go...
"And?" Lucian arched a brow, clearly not catching her drift. "What about it?"
Elian already had a feeling where this was going. His fists tightened but he didn't say a word as Reina continued.
"With respect, don't you think having Elian beside you would be... Detrimental?" She asked, her voice hesitant. "I'm not trying to insult him or pressure you but—"
